Many Jeep owners end up replacing their stock antenna. For the most part, this is because the stock antenna is long, inflexible, and easily broken. Aftermarket Jeep antennas use more rugged and flexible materials.
Their lower profile and more durable materials make aftermarket antennas less likely to snag and break, which is a big plus for off-roading.
To help you find the right antenna upgrade for your Jeep, we will be reviewing some of the best aftermarket Jeep antennas on the market in 2020.
Comparison of the Best Jeep Antennas
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When is it Time to Replace My Antenna?
There are several reasons why a Jeep owner might consider replacing their stock antenna. For some, replacing their antenna is simply a matter of taste. The stock antenna on many Jeeps is basic and a little bit too long. Some prefer a sleeker design and a lower profile.
You can also replace your antenna if you are finding you hear too much static, even on radio stations where you used to get a clear signal. A broken or partially damaged antenna is easily replaced.
It might also be time to consider an antenna upgrade if you find your stock antenna is getting caught and snagged regularly. Off-road enthusiasts often find the stock antenna extends too high for their hobby.
Are All Antennas The Same?
Aftermarket antennas come in all different shapes, lengths, and colors. They also provide different levels of performance.
While some antennas are designed for durability and discretion, some are long, which helps with reception. As with most aftermarket Jeep accessories, antennas are constructed from a wide range of materials.
Each antenna will have its strengths and weaknesses.
How to Choose an Antenna
Choosing a new Jeep antenna should involve weighing up several factors. Each antenna is different, so you need to find the right balance of advantages and disadvantages until you have found one that satisfies you.
The following factors are always worth consideration:
Material
Antennas use a wide range of materials. You will want to choose one that uses durable material that can withstand physical abuse. Generally this means avoiding cheap plastic.
Reception
Different antennas have different reception capabilities. If you want to make sure your Jeep can receive both FM and AM radio stations clearly, you need to make sure you are choosing an antenna with good reviews indicating that reception isn’t degraded TOO much.
Flexibility
One of the main issues with the stock Jeep antenna is its lack of flexibility. They regularly snap and break, so if you are buying a replacement, it needs to be one that can bend without immediately snapping.
Style and Personal Preference
Antennas come in all sorts of shapes, sizes, and colors. You should take all of these qualities into consideration when choosing a new antenna.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Best Jeep Antennas
- OUR TOP PICK: AntennaX Off-Road A1J-JEP17
- RUNNER-UP: AntennaMastsRus 4332950187
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Rydonair Antenna RD-13J
Review of the Best Jeep Antennas
To help you find the perfect aftermarket antenna for your Jeep, we have reviewed seven of the best Jeep antennas available in 2020. All of these antennas offer a nice balance between style, functionality, and affordability.
Best Overall
AntennaX Off-Road A1J-JEP17
Specifications
Length: 17.8″
Construction Material: Rubber
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What Recent Buyers Report
Most recent buyers are impressed with the quick installation and much lower profile of this 13” off-roading antenna. Where some users were having issues with their factory antenna snagging on branches during off-road driving, this shorter antenna addressed the problem. Even those that did not purchase this antenna for off-roading purposes still found that they much preferred the look of a more discreet antenna.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The reason why this antenna made our top spot for the best Jeep antenna of 2020 is that it perfectly balances style and performance. You get a lower profile antenna in a flexible material that does not impact the radio reception.
Those that have lifted Jeeps would benefit from having this shorter antenna, which sits much lower than the top of the windshield. We also liked that this replacement antenna simply screws into the existing antenna mount, so installation takes just minutes.
Bottom Line
If you own a Jeep Wrangler and you are looking for a more flexible and lower profile radio antenna, you cannot go wrong with this 13” off-roading antenna from AntennaX. You get all the performance of the stock antenna but in a much smaller and more attractive package.
Pros
‘Plug-n-Play’ quick installation with no wiring required
Made from durable and flexible rubber to prevent snapping
Very similar radio reception to the much larger factory antenna
Low profile 13” antenna replaces the much longer 31” factory antenna
Will not interfere with On-Star, Bluetooth, GPS navigation, or satellite radio signals
Cons
Some static issues reported with FM stations
Requires some force to get it to sit flush with the antenna mount
Runner-up
AntennaMastsRus 4332950187
Specifications
Length: 6 3/4″
Construction Material: EPDM Rubber
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What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers like the stealthy appearance of this short replacement antenna. This product was popular amongst off-road enthusiasts, as they prefer the reduced risk of snags you get with such a low profile antenna.
While some found they experienced slightly more static than they did with the stock antenna, others barely noticed a difference.
Why it Stands Out to Us
While you would assume the extremely short 6.75-inch height is the main reason why we liked this antenna, the truth is the build quality drew us to it.
Where most aftermarket antennas use an aluminum or steel coil, this antenna features a copper coil, which is much more conductive. This conductivity helps this antenna maintain high reception levels despite its small size.
We also liked the flexible, rubber housing, which makes it the perfect choice for off-roading enthusiasts. The ability to choose between nine different colors also helps this small antenna add personality and flair to your Jeep.
Bottom Line
If you take your Jeep off-roading and worry about antenna snags, this super short antenna is the perfect replacement. You can still listen to all the same radio stations, but you will not have to have the same concerns about your antenna snagging and snapping.
Pros
Easy installation
Made in the USA
Extremely low profile 6 ¾” height
Available in nine different color options
Made from 304 stainless steel threading with an EPDM rubber housing
Cons
Some loss in radio reception
Rubber housing is a bit stiffer than advertised
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Best for the Money
Rydonair Antenna RD-13J
Specifications
Length: 13″
Construction Material: Rubber
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What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers liked this antenna because it fixes clearance issues they had with their much larger stock antenna. Given that this replacement antenna is only 13 inches and the stock antenna is about 31 inches and much less flexible, this is a great choice for anyone that is having issues with the height of their antenna.
Buyers also liked the straightforward installation and relatively low cost.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Given that this is our top budget-friendly pick, the first thing we noticed about this antenna was its low price. This product is an affordable antenna replacement that still delivers a much lower profile than the stock antenna and much of the same performance.
We also really liked the carbon fiber base, which adds significant strength at one of the most common snapping points for antennas. Given how affordable this antenna is, we were also really impressed with the reception quality.
Bottom Line
If you are looking for a low profile Jeep antenna at a reasonable price, you should consider this sleek antenna from Rydonair. It looks great, works well, and it is significantly shorter than the stock antenna.
Pros
Low cost
Low profile 13” height
Easy, tool-free installation
Carbon fiber column on the bottom looks great and increases strength
Housed in a flexible and durable rubber that will not snap in cold weather conditions
Cons
Difficult to properly tighten by hand
Slight static interference with some FM radio stations
Best CB Antenna for Jeep Wranglers
FireStik – FS-4BK
Specifications
Length: 4″
Construction Material: Fiberglass
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What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers were impressed by how easily they could tune this antenna with any tuners from the market. They found it offered an impressive range and was easy to mount and install.
While some were a little disappointed by how stiff the antenna is, most were not overly concerned.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The reason why this CB antenna stood out to us was its low cost and impressive durability. While the durable construction does make it somewhat inflexible, we think this is a fair tradeoff for the added strength you get with a stainless steel antenna spring.
It has a high-performance loading coil and can be used in both single and dual configurations. You can get clear reception using this antenna. In terms of appearance, it looks great and matches the rugged aesthetic of the Jeep Wrangler.
Bottom Line
If you are looking for a high-quality CB antenna for your Jeep Wrangler, you should seriously consider the FS-4BK from FireStik.
Pros
Reasonable price
Easy, tool-free installation
High-performance loading coil
Easy to tune with an SWR meter
Can be used in single or dual configurations
Cons
Fairly long
Not very flexible
Best Jeep Wrangler Short Antenna
AntennaX – Super Shorty
Specifications
Length: 1.5″
Construction Material: Rubber
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What Recent Buyers Report
This antenna is popular amongst off-road enthusiasts. Given how often stock Jeep antennas snag on low hanging tree branches during trail drives, it is not surprising that most of the recent buyers liked the low profile of the AntennaX Super Shorty.
While some recent buyers said they lost some reception after switching to this small antenna, most found the tradeoff to be worth it.
Why it Stands Out to Us
As you would expect, the incredibly discreet size of this antenna was the first thing that stood out to us. At just 1.5”, this is just about the smallest Jeep antenna on the market.
We like how easy it is to install and thought it was nice that AntennaX included a delete cap for those that do not use their radio.
This product is a great antenna replacement if you find the longer, stock antenna gets in the way during off-roading sessions, or if you like to put a storage cover over your Jeep and discover the antenna gets in the way.
Bottom Line
If you are looking for a hardly noticeable antenna replacement, it doesn’t get much smaller than the discreet size of the AntennaX Super Shorty. While it is not the best antenna for reception, it does solve any snagging issues you may encounter with the stock antenna.
Pros
Low price
Extremely discreet 1.5” height
Straightforward ‘Plug-n-Play’ installation
Includes a ¾” delete cap if you do not want an antenna
Will not interfere with On-Star, Bluetooth, GPS Navigation, or satellite radio
Cons
Short, but not very flexible
Slightly worse reception than the stock antenna
Best Jeep Wrangler Stubby Antenna
Sukemichi Bullet Antenna 5558975264
Specifications
Length: 6.3″
Construction Material: Aluminum Alloy
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What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers were impressed by the build quality of this unique antenna. They found that the bullet-style design helped give their Jeep a unique look. Buyers were also impressed by the matte black finish and the high-end appearance. Some found that they lost a bit of reception compared to their stock antenna, but that is expected considering it is over 20-inch shorter.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This antenna stood out to us mostly because of its most defining feature – the bullet design. While a bullet design might not be for everyone, it can add plenty of personality and flair to your Jeep. It helps with the whole militarized look that many Jeep owners enjoy.
We were also impressed with the corrosion and fade resistant coating Sukemichi applied to this antenna. The matte black finish looks great, and it makes sure that the antenna will stand up to the elements.
Bottom Line
If you are looking for a stubby Jeep antenna and want something that stands out from the crowd, this bullet-style stubby antenna from Sukemichi could be just what you need.
Pros
Discreet 6.5” height
Unique bullet design
Coating is resistant to fading and corrosion
Easy installation that does not require any tools
Made from a durable, high-quality aluminum alloy
Cons
Somewhat expensive for a stubby antenna
Slightly worse reception than the stock antenna
Best Jeep TJ Antenna
Ronin Factory Bullet Antenna
Specifications
Length: 4.5″
Construction Material: 6061 Billet Aluminum
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What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers liked the bullet shape of this sleek Jeep TJ antenna. The matte finish and Ronin Factory’s military-style logo give this antenna a unique and bold appearance that helps the entire vehicle stand out.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We like that this antenna fits Jeep TJ. Where some antenna manufacturers go for more of a one-size-fits-all design, Ronin Factory specifically designs antennas to be optimized for particular Jeep models.
We also really liked the bullet shape, rugged matte finish, and the fact it uses durable, yet lightweight aluminum. The addition of an anti-theft thread compound is another unique feature that helps set this antenna apart from the crowd.
Bottom Line
If you want to replace your Jeep TJ’s stock antenna with something that is a little lower in profile and adds personality, consider this sleek bullet-style antenna from Ronin Factory. It has a rugged design and is durable enough to stand up to even the most intense off-road trails.
Pros
Easy to install
Made from durable 6061 billet aluminum
Built specifically to fit the Jeep Wrangler TJ
Features a hard-anodized black finish that will not fade or scratch
Features an anti-theft design that uses a thread locking compound to secure the antenna
Cons
Some loss of reception reported
We hope these reviews will solve your antenna problem, and if you have any other Jeep Wrangler problems then you can read our article.
Advantages of Investing in a Quality Antenna
There are plenty of reasons why you should consider replacing your stock Jeep antenna with a high-quality aftermarket antenna.
Smaller Size
As you can tell from the antennas that made our list, most antennas are much shorter than the stock Jeep antennas.
They are less noticeable and, more importantly, much less likely to snag and break.
Better Reception
Aftermarket antennas outperform the stock Jeep antennas, which despite their large size, actually suffer from fairly ordinary reception.
Added Style
A high-quality aftermarket antenna can feature a unique style, such as the bullet-style antennas you saw on our list. They are also available in different colors and feature eye-catching highlights, such as carbon fiber stems.
Common Antenna Issues
Some of the most common issues Jeep owners report after purchasing a new antenna are difficulties ensuring it sits flush with the antenna mount. Given that antennas are a relatively easy part to replace, most people screw them into place with their bare hands. The problem is the threads can be a little tough when it gets down to the final few turns. To address this problem, you can wrap the base of the antenna in a shop towel or old t-shirt and then twist it into place with a set of pliers.
Creating a barrier between the antenna and the pliers will ensure your new antenna does not scratch or bend. Sometimes tightening your aftermarket antenna can help with some minor reception issues, such as excessive static.
Always be sure to read through your instruction manual to make sure the installation is done according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Conclusion
There are plenty of styles and sizes available when it comes to choosing an aftermarket Jeep antenna. While you should always base your decision on your personal preferences and requirements, the seven Jeep antennas we reviewed all meet our standards for quality and value.
Remember, always choose an antenna that is built to last and never forgets that it is your Jeep, so you should choose a style that you like the look of.
Quick Summary – Best Jeep Antennas
Before you get too far, here’s a quick summary of the best Jeep antennas:
People Also Ask
If you still have questions, don’t worry. Here are some of the things that most people wonder about when it comes to Jeep antennas.
Antennas pick up the magnetic energy of radio waves and send them to the Jeep’s radio receiver, which amplifies the radio waves so you can hear them.
The satellite antenna is located on the passenger side of the Jeep Wrangler. It is located inside the roll bar, usually right above the speaker in the soundbar.
There are a few locations where you can mount a CB antenna on a Jeep; however, the most popular spots are above one of the tail lights using a taillight mount, next to the rear tire rack using a tire rack mount, or on the Jeep’s rear bumper.
You can choose just about any size replacement antenna for the Jeep XJ. Most people choose a much smaller antenna to replace the factory antenna, as it helps with avoiding snags.
Who Worked on This?
Brian
Editor
A master of organization, Brian helps keep everything running smoothly for Your Jeep Guide.
No Jeep yet but we’re working on that!
Cory
Writer
Cory loves his XJ and frequently thrashes it through the hills. He’s constantly fixing something.
“What fenders?”
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